Portugal, a country that promises a delightful blend of the old and the new, is an ideal destination for any month of the year. From the vibrant cities to the serene countryside, Portugal has something for every type of traveller. In this guide, we will explore what Portugal has to offer in the month of May, a time when the country is in full bloom and the weather is simply perfect.
Weather in Portugal in May
May is a wonderful time to visit Portugal as the country experiences some of its best weather. With temperatures ranging from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and even swimming in the sea without the summer crowds. The evenings are mild, making it perfect for al fresco dining, and the sun sets around 8.30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore the country's many attractions.
Porto in May
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a worth the trip in May. The city is famous for its port wine, and you can spend your days exploring the many wineries and sampling the different types of port. The Ribeira district, with its narrow streets and colourful houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great place to wander around. The Douro River runs through the city, and you can take a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
- Enjoy a port wine tasting at Calem Port Winery for just €15 per person.
- Take a 50-minute river cruise along the Douro for €15 per person.
- Visit Livraria Lello, one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, for €5 per person (this fee can be used towards the purchase of a book).
Lisbon in May
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city with a rich history. You can explore the city's many neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm. The Alfama district, with its narrow streets and fado music, is a great place to experience the city's traditional culture. The Belem district, with its many monuments, including the Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower, is a worth the trip for history buffs. The city's many viewpoints, or miradouros, offer handsome views of the city and the Tagus River.
- Visit the Jeronimos Monastery for €10 per person.
- Take a tram ride around the city for €2.90 per person.
- Enjoy a pastel de nata, a traditional Portuguese custard tart, for just €1.20 at the famous Pastéis de Belém.
The Algarve in May
The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is known for its beautiful beaches, handsome cliffs, and delicious seafood. In May, the weather is perfect for spending your days lounging on the beach or exploring the region's many attractions. The town of Lagos, with its picturesque old town and beautiful beaches, is a great base for exploring the region. You can also visit the historic town of Silves, with its castle and cathedral, or the beautiful town of Tavira, with its many whitewashed houses and churches.
- Rent a sun lounger and umbrella on Meia Praia beach in Lagos for €20 per day.
- Visit the Silves Castle for €2.80 per person.
- Take a boat tour of the caves and grottos in Lagos for €20 per person.
What flights LON to LIS actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
The cheapest return found right now is €61 with Ryanair, departing 31 Oct 2026 (2h 50m each way). See current fares.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Oct 2026 | €61 | Ryanair | Direct | Check |
| 2 Sept 2026 | €63 | easyJet | Direct | Check |
| 30 Sept 2026 | €65 | Ryanair | Direct | Check |
| 10 Oct 2026 | €73 | Ryanair | Direct | Check |
| 15 Sept 2026 | €79 | Ryanair | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 16 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in Lisbon: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
- Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
- KKday — Local experiences and day tours
- Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you
The Azores in May
The Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, are a great destination for nature lovers. In May, the islands are in full bloom, and you can explore the many hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs. The island of São Miguel, with its handsome landscapes and delicious food, is a great place to start your Azores adventure. You can also visit the island of Faial, with its picturesque harbour and volcanic landscape, or the island of Pico, with its towering volcano and wine region.
- Visit the Terra Nostra Park in São Miguel for €16 per person.
- Take a whale watching tour in Faial for €55 per person.
- Visit the Gruta das Torres, a lava tube on the island of Terceira, for €7 per person.
Portugal is a wonderful destination for any time of the year, but May is a particularly great time to visit. With its mild weather, beautiful landscapes, and many attractions, Portugal has something for every type of traveller. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Portugal is sure to delight and inspire you. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this beautiful country.
